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Psefteli PM, Morris JK, Ehler E, Smith L, Bowe J, Mann GE, Taylor PD, Chapple SJ. Sulforaphane induced NRF2 activation in obese pregnancy attenuates developmental redox imbalance and improves early-life cardiovascular function in offspring. Redox Biol 2023; 67:102883. [PMID: 37774548 PMCID: PMC10534264 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In adverse pregnancy a perturbed redox environment is associated with abnormal early-life cardiovascular development and function. Previous studies have noted alterations in the expression and/or activity of Nuclear Factor E2 Related Factor 2 (NRF2) and its antioxidant targets during human gestational diabetic (GDM) pregnancy, however to our knowledge the functional role of NRF2 in fetal 'priming' of cardiovascular dysfunction in obese and GDM pregnancy has not been investigated. Using a murine model of obesity-induced glucose dysregulated pregnancy, we demonstrate that NRF2 activation by maternal sulforaphane (SFN) supplementation normalizes NRF2-linked NQO1, GCL and CuZnSOD expression in maternal and fetal liver placental and fetal heart tissue by gestational day 17.5. Activation of NRF2 in utero in wild type but not NRF2 deficient mice improved markers of placental efficiency and partially restored fetal growth. SFN supplementation was associated with reduced markers of fetal cardiac oxidative stress, including Nox2 and 3-nitrotyrosine, as well as attenuation of cardiac mass and cardiomyocyte area in male offspring by postnatal day 52 and improved vascular function in male and female offspring by postnatal day 98. Our findings are the first to highlight the functional consequences of NRF2 modulation in utero on early-life cardiovascular function in offspring, demonstrating that activation of NRF2 affords cardiovascular protection in offspring of pregnancies affected by redox dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi-Maria Psefteli
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica K Morris
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Elisabeth Ehler
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Lorna Smith
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - James Bowe
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanni E Mann
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom
| | - Paul D Taylor
- School of Life Course Sciences and Population Health, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah J Chapple
- King's British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, United Kingdom.
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Yagishita Y, Chartoumpekis DV, Kensler TW, Wakabayashi N. NRF2 and the Moirai: Life and Death Decisions on Cell Fates. Antioxid Redox Signal 2023; 38:684-708. [PMID: 36509429 PMCID: PMC10025849 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2022.0200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Significance: The transcription factor NRF2 (NF-E2-related factor 2) plays an important role as a master regulator of the cellular defense system by activating transcriptional programs of NRF2 target genes encoding multiple enzymes related to cellular redox balance and xenobiotic detoxication. Comprehensive transcriptional analyses continue to reveal an ever-broadening range of NRF2 target genes, demonstrating the sophistication and diversification of NRF2 biological signatures beyond its canonical cytoprotective roles. Recent Advances: Accumulating evidence indicates that NRF2 has a strong association with the regulation of cell fates by influencing key processes of cellular transitions in the three major phases of the life cycle of the cell (i.e., cell birth, cell differentiation, and cell death). The molecular integration of NRF2 signaling into this regulatory program occurs through a wide range of NRF2 target genes encompassing canonical functions and those manipulating cell fate pathways. Critical Issues: A singular focus on NRF2 signaling for dissecting its actions limits in-depth understanding of its intersection with the molecular machinery of cell fate determinations. Compensatory responses of downstream pathways governed by NRF2 executed by a variety of transcription factors and multifactorial signaling crosstalk require further exploration. Future Directions: Further investigations using optimized in vivo models and active engagement of overarching approaches to probe the interplay of widespread pathways are needed to study the properties and capabilities of NRF2 signaling as a part of a large network within the cell fate regulatory domain. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 38, 684-708.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Yagishita
- Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Dionysios V Chartoumpekis
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas W Kensler
- Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nobunao Wakabayashi
- Translational Research Program, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Habeos GI, Filippopoulou F, Habeos EE, Kalaitzopoulou E, Skipitari M, Papadea P, Lagoumintzis G, Niarchos A, Georgiou CD, Chartoumpekis DV. Maternal Calorie Restriction Induces a Transcriptional Cytoprotective Response in Embryonic Liver Partially Dependent on Nrf2. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:2274. [PMID: 36421460 PMCID: PMC9687455 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11112274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calorie restriction is known to enhance Nrf2 signaling and longevity in adult mice, partially by reducing reactive oxygen species, but calorie restriction during pregnancy leads to intrauterine growth retardation. The latter is associated with fetal reprogramming leading to increased incidence of obesity, metabolic syndrome and diabetes in adult life. Transcription factor Nrf2 is a central regulator of the antioxidant response and its crosstalk with metabolic pathways is emerging. We hypothesized that the Nrf2 pathway is induced in embryos during calorie restriction in pregnant mothers. METHODS From gestational day 10 up to day 16, 50% of the necessary mouse diet was provided to Nrf2 heterozygous pregnant females with fathers being of the same genotype. Embryos were harvested at the end of gestational day 16 and fetal liver was used for qRT-PCR and assessment of oxidative stress (OS). RESULTS Intrauterine calorie restriction led to upregulation of mRNA expression of antioxidant genes (Nqo1, Gsta1, Gsta4) and of genes related to integrated stress response (Chac1, Ddit3) in WT embryos. The expression of a key gluconeogenic (G6pase) and two lipogenic genes (Acacb, Fasn) was repressed in calorie-restricted embryos. In Nrf2 knockout embryos, the induction of Nqo1 and Gsta1 genes was abrogated while that of Gsta4 was preserved, indicating an at least partially Nrf2-dependent induction of antioxidant genes after in utero calorie restriction. Measures of OS showed no difference (superoxide radical and malondialdehyde) or a small decrease (thiobarbituric reactive substances) in calorie-restricted WT embryos. CONCLUSIONS Calorie restriction during pregnancy elicits the transcriptional induction of cytoprotective/antioxidant genes in the fetal liver, which is at least partially Nrf2-dependent, with a physiological significance that warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- George I. Habeos
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Fotini Filippopoulou
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Evagelia E. Habeos
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Electra Kalaitzopoulou
- Section of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Marianna Skipitari
- Section of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Polyxeni Papadea
- Section of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - George Lagoumintzis
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Athanasios Niarchos
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Christos D. Georgiou
- Section of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, Department of Biology, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Dionysios V. Chartoumpekis
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
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Monosomy X in isogenic human iPSC-derived trophoblast model impacts expression modules preserved in human placenta. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2211073119. [PMID: 36161909 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2211073119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian sex chromosomes encode homologous X/Y gene pairs that were retained on the Y chromosome in males and escape X chromosome inactivation (XCI) in females. Inferred to reflect X/Y pair dosage sensitivity, monosomy X is a leading cause of miscarriage in humans with near full penetrance. This phenotype is shared with many other mammals but not the mouse, which offers sophisticated genetic tools to generate sex chromosomal aneuploidy but also tolerates its developmental impact. To address this critical gap, we generated X-monosomic human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) alongside otherwise isogenic euploid controls from male and female mosaic samples. Phased genomic variants in these hiPSC panels enable systematic investigation of X/Y dosage-sensitive features using in vitro models of human development. Here, we demonstrate the utility of these validated hiPSC lines to test how X/Y-linked gene dosage impacts a widely used model for human syncytiotrophoblast development. While these isogenic panels trigger a GATA2/3- and TFAP2A/C-driven trophoblast gene circuit irrespective of karyotype, differential expression implicates monosomy X in altered levels of placental genes and in secretion of placental growth factor (PlGF) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Remarkably, weighted gene coexpression network modules that significantly reflect these changes are also preserved in first-trimester chorionic villi and term placenta. Our results suggest monosomy X may skew trophoblast cell type composition and function, and that the combined haploinsufficiency of the pseudoautosomal region likely plays a key role in these changes.
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Hong K, Muralimanoharan S, Kwak YT, Mendelson CR. NRF2 Serves a Critical Role in Regulation of Immune Checkpoint Proteins (ICPs) During Trophoblast Differentiation. Endocrinology 2022; 163:bqac070. [PMID: 35596653 PMCID: PMC9197021 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Using cultured human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs), mid-gestation human trophoblasts in primary culture, and gene-targeted mice, we tested the hypothesis that the multinucleated syncytiotrophoblast (SynT) serves a critical role in pregnancy maintenance through production of key immune modulators/checkpoint proteins (ICPs) under control of the O2-regulated transcription factor, NRF2/NFE2L2. These ICPs potentially act at the maternal-fetal interface to protect the hemiallogeneic fetus from rejection by the maternal immune system. Using cultured hTSCs, we observed that several ICPs involved in the induction and maintenance of immune tolerance were markedly upregulated during differentiation of cytotrophoblasts (CytTs) to SynT. These included HMOX1, kynurenine receptor, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, PD-L1, and GDF15. Intriguingly, NRF2, C/EBPβ, and PPARγ were markedly induced when CytTs fused to form SynT in a 20% O2 environment. Notably, when hTSCs were cultured in a hypoxic (2% O2) environment, SynT fusion and the differentiation-associated induction of NRF2, C/EBPβ, aromatase (CYP19A1; SynT differentiation marker), and ICPs were blocked. NRF2 knockdown also prevented induction of aromatase, C/EBPβ and the previously mentioned ICPs. Chromatin immunoprecipitation-quantitative PCR revealed that temporal induction of the ICPs in hTSCs and mid-gestation human trophoblasts cultured in 20% O2 was associated with increased binding of endogenous NRF2 to putative response elements within their promoters. Moreover, placentas of 12.5 days postcoitum mice with a global Nrf2 knockout manifested decreased mRNA expression of C/ebpβ, Pparγ, Hmox1, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and Nqo1, another direct downstream target of Nrf2, compared with wild-type mice. Collectively, these compelling findings suggest that O2-regulated NRF2 serves as a key regulator of ICP expression during SynT differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyunghee Hong
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9038, USA
| | | | - Youn-Tae Kwak
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9038, USA
| | - Carole R Mendelson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9038, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9032, USA
- Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-8511, USA
- North Texas March of Dimes Birth Defects Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9038, USA
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Kopacz A, Kloska D, Klimczyk D, Kopec M, Jozkowicz A, Piechota-Polanczyk A. Nrf2 Transcriptional Activity Governs Intestine Development. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116175. [PMID: 35682851 PMCID: PMC9181470 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Our recent findings indicate that Nrf2 transcriptional activity is essential in maintaining the proper large intestinal structure in adult mice. Here, we aimed to verify whether Nrf2-related intestine abnormalities stemmed from the early weaning or gestational periods. Therefore, we analyzed 4-day-old pups and embryos devoid of Nrf2 transcriptional activity (tKO) and their wild-type counterparts. We found significant changes in the intestinal structure of 4-day-old Nrf2 tKO pups including a longer colon, altered crypt distribution, and enlargement of the goblet cells with a markedly higher level of mucin 2. Tracing back the origin of these alterations, we observed that they appeared as early as day 14.5 of embryonic development, independently of sex. Importantly, in this period, we observed a significant increase in the Nrf2 level and a distinctive, untimely pattern of expression of the proliferation factor Ki67. At the latest stage of embryonic development, we detected a premature drop in the differentiation factor Notch1. We suspect that intestine abnormalities in mice lacking Nrf2 transcriptional activity stem from sex-independent disturbed intestinal cell proliferation and could be further exacerbated by altered differentiation. Summing up, we identified Nrf2 transcriptional activity as an important regulator of intestinal formation. It influences the hindgut cell proliferation and differentiation at different stages of embryonic development.
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Behlen JC, Lau CH, Pendleton D, Li Y, Hoffmann AR, Golding MC, Zhang R, Johnson NM. NRF2-Dependent Placental Effects Vary by Sex and Dose following Gestational Exposure to Ultrafine Particles. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:352. [PMID: 35204234 PMCID: PMC8868520 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to ultrafine particles (UFPs, PM0.1) during pregnancy triggers placental oxidative stress and inflammation, similar to fine PM (PM2.5). The Nrf2 gene encodes a redox-sensitive transcription factor that is a major regulator of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses. Disruption of NRF2 is known to substantially enhance PM2.5-driven oxidant and inflammatory responses; however, specific responses to UFP exposure, especially during critical windows of susceptibility such as pregnancy, are not fully characterized; To investigate the role of NRF2 in regulating maternal antioxidant defenses and placental responses to UFP exposure, wildtype (WT) and Nrf2-/- pregnant mice were exposed to either low dose (LD, 100 µg/m3) or high dose (HD, 500 µg/m3) UFP mixture or filtered air (FA, control) throughout gestation; Nrf2-/- HD-exposed female offspring exhibited significantly reduced fetal and placental weights. Placental morphology changes appeared most pronounced in Nrf2-/- LD-exposed offspring of both sexes. Glutathione (GSH) redox analysis revealed significant increases in the GSH/GSSG ratio (reduced/oxidized) in WT female placental tissue exposed to HD in comparison with Nrf2-/- HD-exposed mice. The expression of inflammatory cytokine genes (Il1β, Tnfα) was significantly increased in Nrf2-/- placentas from male and female offspring across all exposure groups. Genes related to bile acid metabolism and transport were differentially altered in Nrf2-/- mice across sex and exposure groups. Notably, the group with the most marked phenotypic effects (Nrf2-/- HD-exposed females) corresponded to significantly higher placental Apoa1 and Apob expression suggesting a link between placental lipid transport and NRF2 in response to high dose UFP exposure; Disruption of NRF2 exacerbates adverse developmental outcomes in response to high dose UFP exposure in female offspring. Morphological effects in placenta from male and female offspring exposed to low dose UFPs also signify the importance of NRF2 in maternal-fetal response to UFPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan C. Behlen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (J.C.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Carmen H. Lau
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Drew Pendleton
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (J.C.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Yixin Li
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (Y.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Aline Rodrigues Hoffmann
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic and Preventive Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32653, USA;
| | - Michael C. Golding
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Renyi Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (Y.L.); (R.Z.)
- Department of Atmospheric Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Natalie M. Johnson
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (J.C.B.); (D.P.)
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Lau CH, Pendleton D, Drury NL, Zhao J, Li Y, Zhang R, Wright GA, Hoffmann AR, Johnson NM. NRF2 Protects against Altered Pulmonary T Cell Differentiation in Neonates Following In Utero Ultrafine Particulate Matter Exposure. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:202. [PMID: 35204086 PMCID: PMC8868442 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Early life exposure to particulate matter (PM) air pollution negatively impacts neonatal health. The underlying mechanisms following prenatal exposure, particularly to ultrafine particles (UFP, diameter ≤ 0.1 μm), are not fully understood; To evaluate the role of Nrf2 in response to in utero UFP exposure, we exposed time-mated Nrf2-deficient (Nrf2-/-) or wildtype (WT) mice to filtered air (FA) or 100 μg/m3 ultrafine PM daily throughout pregnancy. Offspring were evaluated for pulmonary immunophenotypes and pulmonary/systemic oxidative stress on postnatal day 5, a timepoint at which we previously demonstrated viral respiratory infection susceptibility; Nrf2-/- offspring exposed to FA had significantly lower average body weights compared to FA-exposed WT pups. Moreover, PM-exposed Nrf2-/- offspring weighed significantly less than PM-exposed WT pups. Notably, PM-exposed Nrf2-/- offspring showed a decreased pulmonary Th1/Th2 ratio, indicating a Th2 bias. Th17 cells were increased in FA-exposed Nrf2-/- neonates yet decreased in PM-exposed Nrf2-/- neonates. Analysis of oxidative stress-related genes in lung and oxidative stress biomarkers in liver tissues did not vary significantly across exposure groups or genotypes. Collectively, these findings indicate that the lack of Nrf2 causes growth inhibitory effects in general and in response to gestational UFP exposure. Prenatal UFP exposure skews CD4+ T lymphocyte differentiation toward Th2 in neonates lacking Nrf2, signifying its importance in maternal exposure and infant immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen H. Lau
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (C.H.L.); (G.A.W.)
| | - Drew Pendleton
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.P.); (N.L.D.)
| | - Nicholas L. Drury
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.P.); (N.L.D.)
| | - Jiayun Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (J.Z.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Yixin Li
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (J.Z.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.)
| | - Renyi Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (J.Z.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.)
- Department of Atmospheric Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Gus A. Wright
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (C.H.L.); (G.A.W.)
- Flow Cytometry Facility, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Aline Rodrigues Hoffmann
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32653, USA;
| | - Natalie M. Johnson
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (D.P.); (N.L.D.)
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Tantengco OAG, de Castro Silva M, Shahin H, Bento GFC, Cursino GC, Cayenne S, da Silva MG, Menon R. The role of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) in normal and pathological pregnancy: A systematic review. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13496. [PMID: 34467607 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A homeostatic balance between reactive oxygen species production and the antioxidant redox system is an important component of normal pregnancy. Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 (Nrf2) preserves cellular homeostasis by enhancing the cell's innate antioxidant status to reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory damage to the cell during pregnancy. Active Nrf2, in the nucleus of the cell, transactivates various antioxidant genes. The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize evidence on the role of Nrf2 in various adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs). METHODS We conducted a systematic review of the role of Nrf2 in pregnancy. Articles written in English, Portuguese, and Spanish were obtained from three different databases from inception until January 2021. The titles, abstracts and full text were reviewed independently by six reviewers. The quality of the included studies was assessed using a quality assessment tool developed to assess basic science and clinical studies. Nrf2 expression (gene and protein), functional contributions, and association with APOs were assessed. RESULTS A total of 747 citations were identified; 80 were retained for full review. Most studies on Nrf2 have been carried out using placental tissues and placenta-derived cells. Limited studies have been conducted using fetal membranes, uterus, and cervix. Nuclear translocation of Nrf2 results in transactivation of antioxidant enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase, hemeoxygenase-1, and superoxide dismutase in gestational cells during pregnancy. This antioxidant response maintains cellular homeostasis during pregnancy. This promotes trophoblast cell survival and prevents cell death and abnormal angiogenesis in the placenta. Excessive and insufficient Nrf2 response may promote oxidative and reductive stress, respectively. This Nrf2 dysregulation has been associated with APOs including gestational diabetes mellitus, intrauterine growth restriction, reproductive toxicity, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. CONCLUSION Several studies have localized and reported an association between Nrf2's differential expression in reproductive tissues and the pathogenesis of APOs. However, a comprehensive functional understanding of Nrf2 in reproductive tissues is still lacking. Nrf2's activation and functions are complex, and therefore, current in vitro and in vivo studies are limited in their experimental approaches. We have identified key areas for future Nrf2 research that is needed to fill knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ourlad Alzeus G Tantengco
- Division of Basic & Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Mariana de Castro Silva
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Hend Shahin
- Division of Basic & Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Giovana Fernanda Cosi Bento
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Geovanna Cristofani Cursino
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Samir Cayenne
- The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Marcia Guimarães da Silva
- Department of Pathology, Botucatu Medical School, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic & Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
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10
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Cho HY, Miller-DeGraff L, Perrow LA, Gladwell W, Panduri V, Lih FB, Kleeberger SR. Murine Neonatal Oxidant Lung Injury: NRF2-Dependent Predisposition to Adulthood Respiratory Viral Infection and Protection by Maternal Antioxidant. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10121874. [PMID: 34942977 PMCID: PMC8698620 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10121874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
NRF2 protects against oxidant-associated airway disorders via cytoprotective gene induction. To examine if NRF2 is an important determinant of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) susceptibility after neonate lung injury, Nrf2-deficient (Nrf2−/−) and wild-type (Nrf2+/+) mice neonatally exposed to hyperoxia were infected with RSV. To investigate the prenatal antioxidant effect on neonatal oxidative lung injury, time-pregnant Nrf2−/− and Nrf2+/+ mice were given an oral NRF2 agonist (sulforaphane) on embryonic days 11.5–17.5, and offspring were exposed to hyperoxia. Bronchoalveolar lavage and histopathologic analyses determined lung injury. cDNA microarray analyses were performed on placenta and neonatal lungs. RSV-induced pulmonary inflammation, injury, oxidation, and virus load were heightened in hyperoxia-exposed mice, and injury was more severe in hyperoxia-susceptible Nrf2−/− mice than in Nrf2+/+ mice. Maternal sulforaphane significantly alleviated hyperoxic lung injury in both neonate genotypes with more marked attenuation of severe neutrophilia, edema, oxidation, and alveolarization arrest in Nrf2−/− mice. Prenatal sulforaphane altered different genes with similar defensive functions (e.g., inhibition of cell/perinatal death and inflammation, potentiation of angiogenesis/organ development) in both strains, indicating compensatory transcriptome changes in Nrf2−/− mice. Conclusively, oxidative injury in underdeveloped lungs NRF2-dependently predisposed RSV susceptibility. In utero sulforaphane intervention suggested NRF2-dependent and -independent pulmonary protection mechanisms against early-life oxidant injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Youn Cho
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC 27709, USA; (L.M.-D.); (L.A.P.); (W.G.); (S.R.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-984-287-4088
| | - Laura Miller-DeGraff
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC 27709, USA; (L.M.-D.); (L.A.P.); (W.G.); (S.R.K.)
| | - Ligon A. Perrow
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC 27709, USA; (L.M.-D.); (L.A.P.); (W.G.); (S.R.K.)
| | - Wesley Gladwell
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC 27709, USA; (L.M.-D.); (L.A.P.); (W.G.); (S.R.K.)
| | - Vijayalakshmi Panduri
- Epigenetic and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC 27709, USA;
| | - Fred B. Lih
- Mass Spectrometry Research and Support Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC 27709, USA;
| | - Steven R. Kleeberger
- Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC 27709, USA; (L.M.-D.); (L.A.P.); (W.G.); (S.R.K.)
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Buffenstein R, Lewis KN, Gibney PA, Narayan V, Grimes KM, Smith M, Lin TD, Brown-Borg HM. Probing Pedomorphy and Prolonged Lifespan in Naked Mole-Rats and Dwarf Mice. Physiology (Bethesda) 2020; 35:96-111. [DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00032.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Pedomorphy, maintenance of juvenile traits throughout life, is most pronounced in extraordinarily long-lived naked mole-rats. Many of these traits (e.g., slow growth rates, low hormone levels, and delayed sexual maturity) are shared with spontaneously mutated, long-lived dwarf mice. Although some youthful traits likely evolved as adaptations to subterranean habitats (e.g., thermolability), the nature of these intrinsic pedomorphic features may also contribute to their prolonged youthfulness, longevity, and healthspan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Patrick A. Gibney
- Calico Life Sciences LLC, South San Francisco, California
- Department of Food Science, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Stocking Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
| | - Vikram Narayan
- Calico Life Sciences LLC, South San Francisco, California
| | - Kelly M. Grimes
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Megan Smith
- Calico Life Sciences LLC, South San Francisco, California
| | - Tzuhua D. Lin
- Calico Life Sciences LLC, South San Francisco, California
| | - Holly M. Brown-Borg
- Biomedical Sciences, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Grand Forks, North Dakota
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12
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Matsumaru D, Motohashi H. From germ cells to neonates: the beginning of life and the KEAP1-NRF2 system. J Biochem 2020; 167:133-138. [PMID: 31518425 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvz070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1(KEAP1)-NF-E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) system is one of the most studied environmental stress response systems. In the presence of oxidative and electrophilic insults, the thiols of cysteine residues in KEAP1 are modified, and subsequently stabilized NRF2 activates its target genes that are involved in detoxification and cytoprotection. A myriad of recent studies has revealed the broad range of contributions of the KEAP1-NRF2 system to physiological and pathological processes. However, its functions during gametic and embryonic development are still open for investigation. Although oxidative stress is harmful for embryos, Nrf2-/- mice do not show any apparent morphological abnormalities during development, probably because of the compensatory antioxidant functions of NF-E2-related factor 1 (NRF1). It can also be considered that the antioxidant system is essential for protecting germ cells during reproduction. The maturation processes of germ cells in both sexes are affected by Nrf2 mutation. Hence, in this review, we focus on the stress response system related to reproduction and embryonic development through the functions of the KEAP1-NRF2 system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Matsumaru
- Department of Gene Expression Regulation, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, 4-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hozumi Motohashi
- Department of Gene Expression Regulation, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, 4-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8575, Japan
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Jiménez-Vidal L, Espitia-Pérez P, Torres-Ávila J, Ricardo-Caldera D, Salcedo-Arteaga S, Galeano-Páez C, Pastor-Sierra K, Espitia-Pérez L. Nuclear factor erythroid 2 - related factor 2 and its relationship with cellular response in nickel exposure: a systems biology analysis. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2019; 20:78. [PMID: 31852525 PMCID: PMC6921378 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-019-0360-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nickel and nickel-containing compounds (NCC) are known human carcinogens. However, the precise molecular mechanisms of nickel-induced malignant transformation remain unknown. Proposed mechanisms suggest that nickel and NCC may participate in the dual activation/inactivation of enzymatic pathways involved in cell defenses against oxidative damage, where Nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a central role. Methods For assessing the potential role of proteins involved in the Nrf2-mediated response to nickel and NCC exposure, we designed an interactome network using the STITCH search engine version 5.0 and the STRING software 10.0. The major NCC-protein interactome (NCPI) generated was analyzed using the MCODE plugin, version 1.5.1 for the detection of interaction modules or subnetworks. Main centralities of the NCPI were determined with the CentiScape 2.2 plugin of Cytoscape 3.4.0 and main biological processes associated with each cluster were assessed using the BiNGO plugin of Cytoscape 3.4.0. Results Water-soluble NiSO4 and insoluble Ni3S2 were the most connected to proteins involved in the NCPI network. Nfr2 was detected as one of the most relevant proteins in the network, participating in several multifunctional protein complexes in clusters 1, 2, 3 and 5. Ontological analysis of cluster 3 revealed several processes related to unfolded protein response (UPR) and response to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Conclusions Cellular response to NCC exposure was very comparable, particularly concerning oxidative stress response, inflammation, cell cycle/proliferation, and apoptosis. In this cellular response, Nfr2 was highly centralized and participated in several multifunctional protein complexes, including several related to ER-stress. These results add evidence on the possible Ni2+ induced – ER stress mainly associated with insoluble NCC. In this scenario, we also show how protein degradation mediated by ubiquitination seems to play key roles in cellular responses to Ni.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Jiménez-Vidal
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Grupo de Investigación Biomédica y Biología Molecular, Universidad del Sinú, Calle 38 Cra 1W, Barrio Juan XXIII, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - Pedro Espitia-Pérez
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Grupo de Investigación Biomédica y Biología Molecular, Universidad del Sinú, Calle 38 Cra 1W, Barrio Juan XXIII, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - José Torres-Ávila
- Unit for Development and Innovation in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Dina Ricardo-Caldera
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Grupo de Investigación en Enfermedades Tropicales y Resistencia Bacteriana, Universidad del Sinú, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - Shirley Salcedo-Arteaga
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Grupo de Investigación Biomédica y Biología Molecular, Universidad del Sinú, Calle 38 Cra 1W, Barrio Juan XXIII, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - Claudia Galeano-Páez
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Grupo de Investigación Biomédica y Biología Molecular, Universidad del Sinú, Calle 38 Cra 1W, Barrio Juan XXIII, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - Karina Pastor-Sierra
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Grupo de Investigación Biomédica y Biología Molecular, Universidad del Sinú, Calle 38 Cra 1W, Barrio Juan XXIII, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
| | - Lyda Espitia-Pérez
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Grupo de Investigación Biomédica y Biología Molecular, Universidad del Sinú, Calle 38 Cra 1W, Barrio Juan XXIII, Montería, Córdoba, Colombia.
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14
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Obeticholic Acid Protects against Gestational Cholestasis-Induced Fetal Intrauterine Growth Restriction in Mice. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:7419249. [PMID: 31827696 PMCID: PMC6885290 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7419249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Gestational cholestasis is a common disease and is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, there are still no effective treatments. We investigated the effects of obeticholic acid (OCA) on fetal intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) during 17α-ethynylestradiol- (E2-) induced gestational cholestasis in mice. All pregnant mice except controls were subcutaneously injected with E2 (0.625 mg/kg) daily from gestational day (GD) 13 to GD17. Some pregnant mice were orally administered with OCA (5 mg/kg) daily from GD12 to GD17. As expected, OCA activated placental, maternal, and fetal hepatic FXR signaling. Additionally, exposure with E2 during late pregnancy induced cholestasis, whereas OCA alleviated E2-induced cholestasis. Gestational cholestasis caused reduction of fetal weight and crown-rump length and elevated the incidence of IUGR. OCA decreased the incidence of IUGR during cholestasis. Interestingly, OCA attenuated reduction of blood sinusoid area in placental labyrinth layer and inhibited downregulation of placental sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter- (SNAT-) 2 during cholestasis. Additional experiment found that OCA attenuated glutathione depletion and lipid peroxidation in placenta and fetal liver and placental protein nitration during cholestasis. Moreover, OCA inhibited the upregulation of placental NADPH oxidase-4 and antioxidant genes during cholestasis. OCA activated antioxidant Nrf2 signaling during cholestasis. Overall, we demonstrated that OCA treatment protected against gestational cholestasis-induced placental dysfunction and IUGR through suppressing placental oxidative stress and maintaining bile acid homeostasis.
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Miller CN, Kodavanti UP, Stewart EJ, Schaldweiler M, Richards JH, Ledbetter AD, Jarrell LT, Snow SJ, Henriquez AR, Farraj AK, Dye JA. Aspirin pre-treatment modulates ozone-induced fetal growth restriction and alterations in uterine blood flow in rats. Reprod Toxicol 2019; 83:63-72. [PMID: 30528429 PMCID: PMC6582633 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to ozone has been linked to low birth weight in people and fetal growth restriction in rats. Clinical recommendations suggest use of low dose aspirin to lower risk of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction in high-risk pregnancies, yet its utility in mitigating the postnatal effects of gestational ozone exposure is unknown. The present study investigated the possibility of low dose aspirin to mitigate the effects of ozone exposure during pregnancy. Exposure to ozone impaired uterine arterial flow and induced growth restriction in fetuses of both sexes. Aspirin treatment induced marginal improvements in ozone-induced uterine blood flow impairment. However, this resulted in a protection of fetal weight in dams given aspirin only in early pregnancy. Aspirin administration for the entirety of gestation increased placental weight and reduced antioxidant status, suggesting that prolonged exposure to low dose aspirin may induce placental inefficiency in our model of growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colette N Miller
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health & Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | - Urmila P Kodavanti
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health & Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Erica J Stewart
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | - Mette Schaldweiler
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health & Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Judy H Richards
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health & Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Allen D Ledbetter
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health & Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Samantha J Snow
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health & Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Andres R Henriquez
- Curriculum in Toxicology, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Aimen K Farraj
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health & Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Janice A Dye
- Environmental Public Health Division, National Health & Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Muralimanoharan S, Kwak YT, Mendelson CR. Redox-Sensitive Transcription Factor NRF2 Enhances Trophoblast Differentiation via Induction of miR-1246 and Aromatase. Endocrinology 2018; 159:2022-2033. [PMID: 29546425 PMCID: PMC5905392 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-03024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Dysregulation of human trophoblast invasion and differentiation with placental hypoxia can result in preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. Herein, we characterized the role and regulation of miR-1246, which is markedly induced during human syncytiotrophoblast differentiation. miR-1246 targets GSK3β and AXIN2, inhibitors of WNT/β-catenin signaling, which is crucial for placental development, and is predicted to target JARID2, which promotes silencing of developmentally regulated genes. Human cytotrophoblasts cultured in 20% O2 spontaneously differentiate to syncytiotrophoblast with induction of hCYP191A/aromatase, a marker of differentiation. miR-1246 was induced >150-fold during syncytiotrophoblast differentiation in 20% O2, whereas targets-GSK3β, AXIN2, and JARID2-were significantly decreased. However, when cytotrophoblasts were cultured in 2% O2, miR-1246 and aromatase induction were prevented. miR-1246 was significantly decreased in placentas of women with severe preeclampsia, whereas AXIN2, GSK3β, and JARID2 were increased, compared with normotensive subjects. To identify factors that regulate miR-1246, we investigated the redox-regulated transcription factor NRF2, which has predicted binding sites in the miR-1246 promoter. Intriguingly, NRF2 messenger RNA was upregulated during syncytiotrophoblast differentiation and significantly reduced by hypoxia and in preeclamptic placentas. Moreover, NRF2 knockdown in cytotrophoblasts inhibited induction of miR-1246 and hCYP19A1, as well as transcription factors C/EBPβ and PPARγ, which are implicated in placental differentiation. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, we found that binding of endogenous NRF2 to the miR-1246 and hCYP191A promoters increased during syncytiotrophoblast differentiation. Thus, NRF2 promotes syncytiotrophoblast differentiation by inducing C/EBPβ, PPARγ, hCYP19A1, and miR-1246, which targets WNT inhibitors and JARID2 and is dysregulated in preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Youn-Tae Kwak
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Carole R Mendelson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
- North Texas March of Dimes Birth Defects Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
- Correspondence: Carole R. Mendelson, PhD, Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390. E-mail:
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Nrf2 regulates gene-environment interactions in an animal model of intrauterine inflammation: Implications for preterm birth and prematurity. Sci Rep 2017; 7:40194. [PMID: 28071748 PMCID: PMC5223218 DOI: 10.1038/srep40194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of neonatal mortality, and surviving infants are at increased risk for lifelong disabilities. Intrauterine inflammation is an etiological factor that drives PTB, and oxidative stress is associated with PTB. Nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a redox-sensitive transcription factor that is the key regulator of the response to oxidative and inflammatory stress. Here, we used the established mouse model of intrauterine inflammation-induced PTB to determine whether Nrf2 is a modifier of susceptibility to PTB and prematurity-related morbidity and mortality in the offspring. We determined that Nr2-deficient (Nrf2−/−) mice exhibited a greater sensitivity to intrauterine inflammation, as indicated by decreased time to delivery, reduced birthweight, and 100% mortality. Placentas from preterm Nrf2−/− mice showed elevated levels of markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell death, and transcriptomic analysis identified numerous key signaling pathways that were differentially expressed between wild-type (WT) and Nrf2−/− mice in both preterm and control samples. Thus, Nrf2 could be a critical factor for gene-environment interactions that may determine susceptibility to PTB. Further studies are needed to determine if Nrf2 is a viable therapeutic target in women who are at risk for PTB and associated complications in the affected offspring.
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